Between scenery, history, mythology and ancient paths, Ireland has some of the best walking and hiking trails in the world. Walking in Ireland has seen a growth in popularity over the last years. People from around the world come to experience our great outdoors, immerse themselves in the powerful and majestic landscapes, and meet up with like-minded people.
Loop walks, old favorites or undiscovered places, there are many beautiful locations to explore. Whether you like to take on the challenge of mighty mountains, or to wander through woodland paths or escape to the coast for stunning seaside walks, our guide to Walking in Ireland – the best walking and hiking trails will provide you with some inspiration.
West of Ireland
No trip to Connemara and the West of Ireland is complete without the addition of at least one scenic walk to your itinerary. With a trail to suit every level of fitness, there’s something for everybody in this region.
The Western Way is a 100km long-distance walking trail taking in spectacular scenery in the counties of Galway and Mayo. The trail meanders through pilgrim routes, ancient mountains, the outstanding Killary fjord and the magnificent Lough Inagh Valley. A truly stunning walking trail that can be completed over a number of days or broken into sections for shorter daily hikes.
Although not officially part of the Western Way, the Aran Islands have cultural richness in abundance, and this beautiful and romantic walking location is sure to be a highlight of any Connemara trip.
Fort Dun Aengus is located on Inishmore, the largest of the islands. It consists of three dry stone walls and slopes down to one side into the sea. The remains of Dun Aengus are over three thousand years old and are considered to be one of the best preserved sites from prehistoric times. A walk to the “the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe” is a must do.
The Ulster Way
The Ulster Way is a looped walk around Northern Ireland. The trail has been redeveloped and way-marked and is now gaining popularity amongst the world’s top long-distance hiking trails. At over 500 miles, the full trail is quite a challenge, but thankfully there are many wonderful sections that can be enjoyed.
The Antrim Glens and Coastline in one such section. This coastal route is possibly the most beautiful and varied coastal trail in all of Ireland. But it is also a surprisingly easy, low-lying walk that is perfect for beginners and experienced hikers alike!
There’s so much to explore and the region is home to many of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions. Make sure to visit the spectacular Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the iconic ruins of Dunluce Castle, tranquil Rathlin Island and the oldest whiskey distillery in the world at Bushmills. No trip to Antrim would be complete of course without a visit to the Giant’s Causeway. Unique hexagonal-shaped volcanic rocks are the main attraction here, as well as the spectacular walks and scenery.
Wicklow
Wicklow is blessed with some of Ireland most amazing landscape and scenery and is often referred to as the “Garden of Ireland.” The region offers some of the best walking in Ireland and has a network of walks and trails for all to enjoy.
The Wicklow Way is the longest and most scenic long distance linear walk in Ireland. Favored by city dwellers as well as hiking enthusiasts from around the world, the glory and splendor of the mountains, which are older than the Himalayas, are a delight for all to enjoy. The Wicklow Way was Ireland’s first long-distance footpath and runs from Clonegal to Dublin, right past Glendalough. Other highlights of this trail include glimpses of stately homes and lush green spaces, such as the Powerscourt Estate, and the tallest waterfall in Ireland.
A classic day hike in the Wicklow Mountains is the ascent of the Sugarloaf (Sugar Loaf). The towering mountain is a landmark of the Wicklow Mountains and served pilgrims and travelers as a point of reference on the way to Glendalough. Two differently marked paths take you either up to the top, the Great Sugarloaf (4km), or in just about an hour to a high plateau (2.5km).
Kerry
Although County Kerry is a popular destination for holiday makers, it is still one of our top picks for walking in Ireland with many of the best walking and hiking trails to be found in this county. The region itself presents charming towns and villages with brightly painted houses, traditional pubs and quirky shopfronts.
For those that enjoy longer multi-day walks, the Kerry Way or Dingle Way won’t disappoint. The Kerry Way, despite its popularity never feels overcrowded. The start and end point is the town of Killarney, the gateway to the national park of the same name. The Kerry Way takes you right to the base of the McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range, has coastal sections and leads into remote valleys including past the famous Lakes of Killarney.
The Dingle Way is repeatedly named as the most beautiful walking route in Ireland. Its route along miles of sandy beaches, a holy mountain and rich archaeological heritage are just some of the highlights that make hiking this long-distance trail a unique experience.
West Cork
If you prefer walks that offer peace, tranquility and remoteness then the Sheep’s Head Way is your perfect match and some would say it’s walking in Ireland at it’s best.
This walking route forms part of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. It focuses on the famous Sheep’s Head peninsula in West Cork between Bantry Bay and Dunmanus Bay. It begins in the historic West Cork market town of Bantry. From there you can hike right to the end of the Sheep’s Head peninsula where you’ll find the Sheep’s Head lighthouse and stunning views northwards across Bantry bay to the Beara peninsula and south across Dunmanus bay to the Mizen peninsula.
If you don’t have the time to walk the whole trail, the good news is that you can pick 1 of 25 loop walks that range from 1 to 7 hours in duration.
